Play ball! This spring, the Orcas Island Parks and Recreation Department will be offering more games and increased competition for local baseball and softball players.

The baseball committee, along with the Park and Rec board, has thoroughly researched all league options and the last several years of season play. After completing this study, all have voted to rejoin the local Little League District. This will allow for a variety of game opportunities both on island and in the Skagit area.

Game schedules will be set by Little League with gameplay from April 1 – June 3. The registration deadline is Feb. 27, for all baseball and softball players ages 7 – 14 years of age and pre-registration is required. This year will kick off with a field day for player assessment on March 5. Practices will begin the week of March 13.

T-Ball begins the week of April 24 for ages 5 – 7 and will continue with on-island scrimmages. Registration deadline for T-Ball is April 3.

Early registration is greatly appreciated and will help to ensure there are plenty of uniforms, that equipment is purchased and on hand for the start of the season. No registration will be accepted after Feb. 27. Scholarships and payment plans are available. To register stop by our office located in the northwest corner of the Funhouse or visit the department’s website at www.oiprd.org and click on the big green registration button.

The Parks and Rec board is looking for volunteers to help with team coordination, field prep, officiating and coaching. Through participation in these programs, ur island youth further develop strength in physical, social, emotional and psychological health while fostering meaningful connections with peers and adults; building a stronger community together.

If you would like to help, contact Kim Ihlenfeldt at kimi@oiprd.org, or 376-7275 (PARK).